Maya Allen

Assistant Editor | Portland, Oregon

About

Who's your beauty icon?

Solange, all day. Her beauty aesthetic is much like her music—unexpected, rebellious, inspiring, and in a league of its own. She unapologetically owns bold hair and makeup looks like no other. I'm forever living for her unique and genuine approach to beauty.

Who are your 5 favorite people to follow on Instagram?

@Melanin.art @SaintRecords @Patmcgrathreal @Zoeisabellakravitz @Blackgirlinom

What's the beauty essential you can’t live without?

Red lipstick. Nothing has the power to make me feel more like a boss than wearing a fiery red lipstick. I lost count after a while, but I own over 50 variations of red shades and I will never give them up. And yes, they're all different.

What's your desert island album?

I honestly can't pick just one because my answer can switch up as fast as my mood. When I need to dance it out, Beyoncé's "Lemonade" is my first choice. When I'm in my feelings, I'm blasting SZA's "Ctrl" or Alina Baraz's "Urban Flora". And when I need to be reminded of my magic Solange's "A Seat at the Table" is like therapy.

What's your favorite Byrdie.com story?

This Shanina Shaik feature because everything about it is stunning and real and exceptional. I'm also quite in love with this Zoë Kravitz interview because it discusses every lesson I'm teaching my future daughter. And I have to throw in this Pharrell story because he's my husband in my head.